TT win remains top goal for Reeves after shock retirement from F1
Three-times World Sidecar Champion and popular Isle of Man TT competitor Tim Reeves has sensationally quit the Eastern Airways F1 Sidecar Championship with just five weeks to go before the 2011 campaign starts.
He is citing a lack of funding for his decision to hang up his helmet.
With not enough sponsorship to contest the entire season, Reeves feels he has no other option but to retire from the class with immediate effect.
However, the Kent driver is still planning to visit the 2011 Isle of Man TT fuelled by Monster Energy as he bids to fulfil his last goal in the sport – winning a TT race.
Unless extra funding can be found, the TT will be his only race outing this season.
Reeves said:
“It’s been a really difficult decision to make, but, over the last couple of days, I’ve decided enough is enough as I simply can’t compete at the level required anymore.”
“I’m only interested in winning - and the aim for 2011 was to make it two titles in a row - but without the budget in place to try and achieve that goal, there’s simply no point in me carrying on.”
He added:
“The sport has been my life, but I can’t race without the money to do it so I’ve reluctantly had to make the decision to retire.”
“I’ve spent all winter trying to raise the funds, and have had all manner of people helping me, including marketing and PR experts, but it’s all been to no avail. Companies and organisations haven’t got the capacity to sponsor people so it’s time for me to call it a day.”
“I was really looking forward to the season, especially with a number of rounds being back at the BSB meetings, but it’s not meant to be.”
“I’ll focus all my attentions on the TT races and will give it 100% to get a win on the Island in June.”
Reeves has put his British Championship-winning outfit, which took him to 15 wins in 2010, up for sale. Details are available on the Steve English website.